MILWAUKEE, Nov. 20, 2013/PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, a global multi-industrial company with established core businesses in the automotive and building industries, has named its global innovation centers which are headquartered in Milwaukee after Stephen A. Roell, who retired as chief executive officer of the company on Oct. 1, 2013.

Inspired by the history of innovation started by company founder Warren Johnson, Roell founded the Johnson Controls Innovation Center in 2013 with a vision to continually transform and renew the company by pursuing new ideas that deliver real value to customers.

The Stephen A. Roell Innovation Centers, headquartered in the city's historic Third Ward, serve as a catalyst to support Johnson Controls employees, customers, suppliers and other partners as they find the innovation that creates business results.

"One of the most enduring aspects of Steve Roell's legacy as CEO was his passion and commitment to fostering a culture of innovation," said Alex Molinaroli, chief executive officer of Johnson Controls."Steve laid a tremendous foundation for our company to grow and naming our innovation centers after him is one way we hope to honor his leadership."

Roell joined Johnson Controls in 1982. From 1991 to 2004, he served as senior vice president and chief financial officer.He was elected executive vice president in 2004, and a year later was named vice chairman.Roell became CEO of Johnson Controls on Oct. 1, 2007.

Johnson Controls' innovation efforts are taking place around the globe to identify new opportunities for the company and creating real value for customers.As Steve Roell once said, "innovation is not invention, it's how we create value."

About Johnson ControlsJohnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 168,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2013, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #14 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list.For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.